Heel Rocking

[maritato1]

Hi All. I'm rowing for a month

Today for the first time, I noticed that on the final position of the recovery (catch) I was rocking up on the balls of my feet (heels raised). The heels went down when I started the push (drive). It seemed pretty good and more powerful. Is that good technique? I just saw Xeno's stroke on this site and it looked like he was doing that in his stroke.

Thanks in advance for any insight.

Rich M

[GeorgeD]

Hi All. I'm rowing for a month

Today for the first time, I noticed that on the final position of the recovery (catch) I was rocking up on the balls of my feet (heels raised). The heels went down when I started the push (drive). It seemed pretty good and more powerful. Is that good technique? I just saw Xeno's stroke on this site and it looked like he was doing that in his stroke.

Thanks in advance for any insight.

Rich M

Hi Rich,

most people would have a degree of heel raise at the catch unless they are very flexible. The most important aspect is to try and not go past the vertical with the shins as this places the knees in a less than advantageous position for a strong quick start to the drive.

Once the drive begins look to get the heals down onto the plates as quickly as practical so that the drive force is maximised and not dissipated thru the foot flexing.

IMHO George

[maritato1]

Thanks for the advice George.

Rich